Mac1958
Diamond Member
One thing to factor into answering this question would be rules of engagement.Military invasion. No usage of tactical nuclear weapons in this scenario.
I have yet to hear a good argument that the US could militarily defeat Iran. Iran has half a million active duty personnel, with a sizable portion modernized. A large reserve is available, and there are many powerful tribes within Iran that would ally with the ruling government.
Sure, there is air and naval superiority. Bombardment is costly in both money, equipment, and life. As we saw in the recent conflict between Saudi Arabia and Yemen, excessive air and naval power had the ferocity of gnats.
If we're going to enter another asymmetrical war - where we're playing fair and the other guys aren't - then it may be best to strongly consider other options.
Obviously, it's easy to imagine that Trump would hamstring his leaders and troops less than someone else might.
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